CHAPTER 14
Note: Verses 1 to 5, are just before terrible events on Earth for the Jewish population from Satan, and for all anti-Jehovah and Anti-Christ people from Jehovah God Almighty, whose wrath is released on mankind for the first time, since the flood.
V.1 And I saw, lo, (a)The Lamb standing on the (b)Mount Sion, and (a)with Him an (a)hundred forty and four thousand, (c)having His name and (c)His Father's name written (c)on their foreheads.
(a) "The Lamb"; unfortunately, the Church of England again diminish the original in the Authorised Version, by changing to "a Lamb", which could mean anything! The intent of the Holy Spirit was/is to convey "The” Lamb, (Str. Interlinear number 721). The origin of the meaning through various levels is, "a male, strong to lift or raise". It is interesting that the Authorised renders, "a Lamb", N.I.V., the Lamb both with a capital L, but both without the definite article The Lamb; New King James Version; NKJV, has footnote "The". The Interlinear has Lamb without the definite article, but in the vernacular Greek used, the word (721) means the above. There is only One, which is The Lamb of God, Who takes away the sin of the World, (John 1:29 & 36); and Who also was found worthy to open the seals of the scroll in the sole timing of Jehovah Zebaoth (Rev. 5:9). The definite article gives the emphasis (force to the meaning from Jehovah God, My Son, the only begotten of the Father, John 1:14 and 1John 4:9).
"With Him an hundred forty and four thousand"; (see Rev. 7:3-8); (144,000), the number we know is made up of 12,000 from each of the twelve tribes of Israel (12 x 12,000) see Rev. 7. The number 12 in Scripture means "Governmental perfection", (App. 10 Comp.). Here there is 12 x 12 = 144, which could indicate extreme Governmental perfection (or ultimate Governmental perfection), which can only mean Government by Almighty God is about to begin.
This therefore confirms that which is stated in Chapter (1:10) "in the LORD'S DAY", (as opposed to the day of man, which is the present case). An interesting aspect to this grouping is that they are "With Him". They are all male (Rev. 7:4, which confirms God’s order in the battle with Satan, where the Greek word "Huios", is son, or male, [Str. 5207]). There is a parallel to be drawn with King David's "Adullam", group (1Sam. 22:1, 1Sam. 23:13, 1Chron. 11:15 & Micah 1:15), so called, being a cave in enemy territory (Nephilim), and just prior to David attaining power; and here, we are seeing the Power Reign beginning, of “Great David’s Greater Son”! (Rev. 22:16; Mk. 12:35-37 & Matt. 22:41-46).
A parallel can be drawn with David's early companions in arms (1Sam. 21), in light of V.4(a) where ceremonial cleanliness in David's men was required to be allowed the priests bread! (Shew bread) (1Sam. 21:1-6). It is clear from our Lord's statement in Matt. 12:3-6, when the Pharisees criticised His 12 disciples He referred them to 1Sam. 21:4, and by implication to Exodus 28:36-38, Lev. 15:15-30, and Lev. 24:9, which confirms the priestly function, the separation, and the Holiness (separation) of the Names on the foreheads of the 144,000.
This "separation" (holiness), is mostly not understood! "Holiness" in this context has the meaning "separated out from"; and as shown with David’s men who had not been with women for 3 days up to the Priest’s question in 1Sam. 21:4; and David’s answer in V.5. Showbread, makes them ceremonially clean and strengthened for a Divine task to be undertaken.
In this case, these 144,000 men are to be fighters with Christ Jesus in the task of retrieving Israel and Gentiles from Satan; and the "bread" they will be given is from their "Great High Priest", Jesus Christ in Power and Glory; which will be physical and spiritual.
An example of this among many in especially Old Testament Scripture is that of Moses. Prior to his entry into service of God to negotiate the release of Israel from Egypt/Pharaoh, there takes place the startling and remarkable event when Zipporah his wife circumcised his son Gershom (Ex. 4:24 & 25). Had Moses not been forced into "Covenant correctness" by Zipporah; he would have been entering battle with Satan, unqualified; as Satan would claim his disqualification as default victory for him!
There are clear rules of engagement between Satan and God; allowed by God, from the moment of Satan’s challenge to Him. See: Zipporah and the Circumcision of Gershom and Eliezer & Satan's Contest with God.
These are in place to allow all Creation, both Heaven and Earth; to witness the eventual defeat of Satan, by God’s love. See: Love (Ultimate);
Another example from the New Testament is the Baptism of Jesus, when John the Baptist objected to Baptising Jesus, Jesus replied "let all righteousness be fulfilled" Matt. 3:15! Jesus’ statement pertained to the ‘rules’ of that particular time, in the contest between Satan and Almighty God. The ‘rules’ in question applied until the end of John the Baptist’s Ministry; (Luke 16:16) which at that stage was very close, as when Jesus was Baptised by John, the “Anointing” by God was immediate (Matt. 3:15-17), and Jesus was then in the state of “Covenant Purity” and readiness! This was just before He entered into His direct ministry against Satan; as evidenced by Satan’s attempt to obtain the worship of Jesus!
As the “Second Adam", (1Cor. 15:22, 45-47 & Rom. 5) Jesus refused to follow the way of all men; and therefore become (as the sinless Man) the "propitiation" for the sin of Adam, and the world to God the Father.
The Lord's statement about Himself in Matt. 12:6 - 8 stated the Truth about His person, and the importance of the grouping, of Himself and His disciples, (see Rev. 14:4, and compare with 1Sam. 21:1-6). The importance of being in a state of ceremonial cleanness for a Priestly function, such as that by David, and his men, our Lord and his disciples and in Rev. 14:4 by the 144,000 with The Lamb, is essential in the plan and work of Jehovah Zebaoth towards the undoing of the work of Satan in the Garden of Eden. This shows that a great work is about to be accomplished with Christ leading the battle!
Eve's was the first sin, Gen. 3:13, but Adam's is the responsibility, Gen. 3:17, so that the persuasive effect of Eve upon Adam, and the weakness of Adam must be eliminated for the cleansing service and function, because the order of Jehovah Zebaoth will be established upon the Earth, which Satan successfully reversed at the Garden of Eden. See: Eve and Adam; and see note V4.
The Apostle Paul's teaching on this subject showed the mind of Christ as regards the male and female roles, and will be the case in the Millennial period. This is mentioned only to illustrate the Lord's statement above re. Himself and His disciples, and the ceremonial cleansing for purpose, of the 144,000 male servants.
When the Lamb and His 144,000 start their work all the order will start to be established, as it is in Heaven, i.e. first Jehovah God, Christ and the Holy Spirit, second man, third woman, then children, followed by animals. (This not to be confused with the position of men and women in Christ, who are One in Him)!
The Davidic example projects through to Rev. 14:1, where the "end time", grouping of Christ and His representative 12 (12,000 x 12) are stated, preparing and prepared for the purpose of Jehovah Zebaoth about to be enacted. As we know from Scripture that Christ is "great David’s greater Son", (Num. 24:17, Zech. 6:12-13, 2Peter 1:19 & Rev. 22:16), and in Rev. 14:1 is here poised for action to take Jerusalem and rule, the Davidic account in Sam., Chron., and King's is significant, which of course His Greater Son will perform perfectly, to His Father's Will. In Matt. 12:6, Jesus refers to Himself as "greater than the Temple", meaning that He is the Anointed One, The Christ, The One who is to come. Here, Jehovah Zebaoth in Christ is about to change the whole world, starting in Jerusalem.
(b) "Mount Sion"; Sion, or Zion (both spellings are used) is synonymous for or with Jerusalem, (one definition of "Zion" is "Stronghold"). There is dispute as to the actual location of Zion. In the Old Testament, it is the Easternmost of the two hills of Ancient Jerusalem, the site of the Jebusite city captured by David in the 10th century B.C. (2Sam. 5:6-9). Also probably refers to "the stronghold of Zion", (2Sam. 5:7) taken by David and established as his royal capital.
Josephus possibly mistakenly, identified Zion as the western hill (first cent. A.D.), this opinion remained until 19th/20th century, when the Eastern hill was re-established (modern Ophel). It was not included in the 16th century fortifications, and is still covered in fields and vineyards (Ency. Brit. 1977).
The actual site has huge significance for the future, as is seen from this verse alone. It is the true site of the "shining forth in Glory", (HEB. YAPHA) of the Promised One (Deut. 33:2) which corresponds with "Maranatha" for the Christian (1Cor. 16:22). The Law was given by God Almighty on Mt. Sinai ("HOREB"), the Law and the Prophets will be fulfilled by Messiah/Christ Jesus at His return (Deut. 33:2).
Note: 2019: There is increased activity between the Palestinians and Israel reference the location of the actual site of the Ancient Jewish Temple, both Solomon’s, and Herod’s. The site of the current ‘Dome of the Rock’, is now thought to possibly be that of the large Roman occupational fortress of ‘Antonio’ (i.e. Mark Antony). Serious consideration is being given to this possibility, especially as a Roman coin was found underneath the lowest point of the so-called ‘Wailing Wall’; reputed (maybe wrongly) to be the foundation of the 1st Temple! Herod raised the Temple approx. 30’ to 60’, to be on the same plane as the Roman Fort, and he may have moved it North, to make the work more convenient! This whole possibility has stirred up much activity in the local population; and may auger soon action regarding the 3rd Temple. This especially so, as 2018 is the 70th year of the existence of Modern Israel since 1948! (See: Biblical 7 and 70 Significance ).
(The first Jewish Temple (Solomon’s) is thought to have been built in the 10th Century BC (1Kings 5-9). This was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar approx. BC 586.
The site of the Temple according to Scripture is that of the Threshing Floor of Moriah where the Patriarch Abraham took his son Isaac in obedience to Jehovah, who had requested his sacrifice (Gen. 22:14). The same site is referred to in the Bible as ‘Zion’, but that name is now associated in the public mind to the whole land of Israel.
The second Temple of Nehemiah and Ezra was begun after the Babylonian exile in approx. BC 538 and dedicated in approx. BC 515. This was a precursor of the re-built structure of Herod’s Temple.
The second Temple under Ezra and Nehemiah is referred to as the 2nd Temple, even after Herod upgraded the building and raised it to the same level as the Antonio Fort, with a connecting roadway. Whether Herod demolished Ezra’s Temple or modified and upgraded it as the description by Josephus implies, is unknown, but it is highly likely that Herod would not demolish Ezra’s Temple and move its location as the Jewish Priesthood would probably have rebelled.
This point is very actively researched at the present time as Ezekiel’s Temple (the 4th) must be on the historically and spiritually given location by Jehovah, according to the Bible.
The Orthodox Priesthood, (Pharisaic) will be involved with the 3rd Temple and also is the site of the Prophetic happenings of the so called ‘end days’.
Whether the next Temple will be a compromise site to suit the Palestinians and the Pharisaic Priesthood, may be the case; as the “Anti-Christ” (False Messiah as per. Pharisaic Scriptures [see: Jewish Scriptures: ]), will claim his deity in it (2Thess. 2:4) at a certain critical stage for Israel.
Whatever the next Temple location; the “Temple of Ezekiel”, will be in exactly the right location, as it will be founded and located by Jehovah Zebaoth, (see Ezekiel 40 – 48); and for the first time since before the Babylonia exile; God will inhabit His Temple (Mal. 3:1)!
As that 70th year of the modern state of Israel is almost upon us ‘2018’ much activity can be expected on this subject.
(c) "Having His name and His Father's name written on their foreheads". The KJV, does not have "His name", but the NKJV, NSV, J.N. Darby, ESV, NKJV & HCSB; all make the correction. This joint naming, although implicit for thousands of years in Scripture, and confirmed by our Lord, "those that have seen Me, have seen the Father", (Jn. 14:9), is here a unique occurrence and is a first in Scripture. In Zech. 14:9, we read; "And Jehovah shall be King over all the Earth: in that Day shall there be one Jehovah, and His Name One (united)".
The period being described is "Jehovah's Day", (Zech. 14:1) & (Rev. 1:10), the period of time yet future at this date (2019) but (probably near when watching the events of the Middle East), when Christ will return to Earth to re-establish Israel, to judge the Nations, and to rule the world from Jerusalem for 1000 years (the Millennial Reign!), see the whole of Zech. 14.
In the Old Testament in Genesis 1:26; And God said, "Let Us make mankind in Our image, after Our likeness"; at this statement there is no clue as to the 2nd Person, only that there is a plurality. Throughout the Old Testament reference is made only to Elohim, Jehovah (with various titles) and the Holy Spirit. Having said that, Isa. 42:1 can now be seen as showing the Triune Godhead, Jer. 51:9 again shows a plurality and also Jer. 10:10, but only retrospectively, and not until Christ had been in the flesh to Earth, and was understood.
The outstanding ref. to the “Triune God” is Deut. 6:4, "Shema"; this is explained in the following link; God and gods.
The Name of Christ is reviled, misused and abused worldwide millions of times daily, mainly in the white, western Caucasoid population, but not exclusively. Ironically, Islamists do not revile and blaspheme His Name, because He is revered as a prophet, but not as God's way of Salvation. It is worth repeating here that Christ is the Greek for Messiah. That Messiah means "Anointed". That Jesus is the Greek for Joshua (Jehoshua) which means, Jehovah the Saviour. Therefore Jesus Christ means; Jehovah the Saviour Anointed. Whenever this most Holy and Worthy title is used wrongly, as is most common in population swearing, much condemnation is being stored up by the individuals for their Judgement, when they are standing before the Great White Throne (Rev. 20:11-12).
However, in Matt. 12:32 we have Christ's statement regarding blasphemy, which referred to that Age, "and the coming Age". At that time the coming Age which Christ constantly preached, was the "Kingdom Age". That Age would have started had the Jewish hierarchy accepted Him as Messiah. As they rejected Him, it is in abeyance.
As shown at Acts 28:28, an unknown (to the Jews) Age began, which was as a consequence of their rejection of Jesus the Christ as their Messiah! We know this "Age" as the Age of "Grace". What this means to the repentant blasphemer, is that in this present Age, as our Lord died for all sin, they appear to be mercifully forgiven, but in the coming Kingdom Age, the conditions will have changed!.
This interpretation is based on the assumption that the repentant person sees and accepts that The Holy Spirit is God, that He is The Author of all life, and that in Christ Jesus He has borne the sin of the individual, and the world!
As regards "His Father's Name"; in the Old Testament, God acting in one form or another was asked "who He was". On the occasion of Judges 13; He replied His name was "wonderful", (V.18), which is confirmed in Isa. 9:6 as Our Lord! In Isa. 41:4, 43:11, 44:6 and 48:12, He confirms His identity with those of Rev. 1:17, 2:8 and 22:13, and shows that He and the Son are One!
In Exodus 3:14, when Moses requested His name, he was told; "I Am that I Am", which has the meaning, I will be what I will be (or become), (Comp. p.76). In John 8:58-59 Jesus again confirms who He is, in reply to the Pharisees, "Before Abraham was, I Am", confirming that the Son (Jesus) and Jehovah, are One.
The fact that at that coming time, the names of the Son and the Father are jointly written on the foreheads of the 144,000 of the twelve tribes, confirms and advertises that their purpose is in the Will of the Father, and under the authority and force of the Son; and that this period of their enactment is the beginning of prophecy fulfilment of both Old and New Testament regarding Millennial. It also shows that the 144,000 are owned as well as sealed by God the Father and the Son, as those in Rev. 13:17, are so owned (see notes), by Satan.
V.2 And I heard a voice out of Heaven, as a voice of many waters, and as a voice of great thunder: and the voice which I heard was that of harpers accompanying the voice.
V.3 And they sing as it were a (a)new song before the throne, and before the four Zoa, and the elders: and no man could learn the song but the 144,000, (b)which had been redeemed from the Earth.
(a) "New song"; the previous reference to "new song", is in Chp. 5:9, where the Zoa and elders sing "new", the praises to the Lamb, just prior to the opening of the first seal.
The "new song", sung by the 144,000 sealed Jews probably relates to Rev. 5:9, but also to their sealed condition, their joy in their Lord, Saviour and King, and all that is about to transpire on Earth against the enemies of Jehovah Zebaoth. See also Psms. 40, 96, 97, 98, 99, 149 & Isa. 42; all these are prophetic of the coming Age, and deliverance of Israel!
(b) "Redeemed from the Earth"; the fact of their redemption is directly related to the "blood of Christ Jesus". Their joyful "new song" will be their expression of love and gratitude. There is undoubtedly a relationship in their selection by God, to the next verse (4); but, as the O.T. explains, The God of the Jews (Jehovah) will reach a time in the future when He will deliver Israel from their enemies, even though they have been so rebellious and unfaithful in their historical actions, and broken their oaths to Him! This will happen, despite their renegade hearts; and will be "for His Name's sake”, as detailed in O.T. This fact also brings into play Jehovah God’s fulfilment of His promises to the Patriarchs of Israel, which cannot be broken!
In one move, Jehovah undoes what Satan has been/is working towards, the dis-enfranchisement of Israel with God.
He does this, in love to Israel and the world’s people, which allows all the future fulfilments promised; see Dan. Ezek. and Isa. etc.
V.4 These are they which were (a)not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men to be (b)the first-fruits to God and to the Lamb.
(a) "Not defiled with women"; this verse has been misquoted, misused, and deliberately targeted against women throughout the last 2000 years by perverse and corrupt men. It is true that in the timing of these events, it will certainly be the case on Earth that sexual immorality, perversion and idolatry will all be mixed together, as an essential part of the then system of "normal society", and will in high probability be sanctioned by Religion, as was the case 2000 years ago in Greece and elsewhere!
When Israel in its history was at its highest point in the Old Testament, Solomon was their King; and he was asked by God to keep the Nation loyal to God, and His Truth when evangelizing the surrounding Tribes and Nations. That evangelistic purpose was to be obeyed through all circumstance, and Solomon started well in that task and mission, by requesting “wisdom” from God at that start of his Kingship, (1Kings 3:9 & 2Chronicles 1:12). To avoid a repeat of Solomon’s failure and degradation with many women (1Kings 11), who led him and Israel in to worship of false gods, (all of Satan); the 144,000 are “sealed” by God; as the task they undertake will not fail, as per 1Kings 11!
Charles Welch makes the point well in his book "This Prophecy", as Satan attempts to use the same method he used successfully in Eden (see: Eve and Adam;)! It is easy to see now (2019) that the trend is already well established on the Earth. What perverse men conveniently omit, is that they themselves are part of the system, and without them the corruption would not exist! (See notes on 14:1(a)).
What Satan cannot do, is create, although he is still trying to find the key, via all means available to him (see: Satan's Motivation: ). However; as per Eden, Satan here is attempting again to control and pervert "pro-creation"! As these 144,000 Jews are "first fruits" of the new "Bride"; and the nucleus of the Millennial Nation of Ezekiel and will not be perverted, as per Eve; Christ Jesus is the first fruit of His Body (1Cor. 15:23), THE Bridegroom, not perverted as per Adam!
See notes on "ceremonial cleansing for service" in V.1(a).
It is factual however that the 144,000 will not partake of the above corruption, and they will be ceremonially clean to the requirements of Ex. 28, Lev. 15 & 24 & 1Sam. 21:4. They will not therefore be in the category of their forbears, who were in a state of sin and disobedience by their mixing with the women of Canaan, who were certainly of Nephilim stock, and who worshipped their pagan idols with sexual acts. Their forbears suffered the fate of the idolater and died in their sin and disobedience to Jehovah, and they will face Jehovah’s judgement, the consequence was the eventual "Lo-Ammi" (not My people) condition in A.D. 69-70.
These forefathers should have been the wife of Jehovah (Jer. 3), but dealt treacherously with their God (Jer. 3:20). The 144,000 are almost certainly the nucleus of the “Bride” of the Lamb and are “virgins” in the sense of not having partaken of the Satan controlled actions, as described above. When the Bride is complete (Jeshurun) (Isa. 61:10), eventually Israel will call Jehovah "Ishi"(my husband), (Hos. 2:16). The original Greek for the translation virgins” (Str. 3933) renders: "a maiden", "an unmarried daughter” which complies with the Bride awaiting!
Most people object that the "Bride" is the Church! However, Scripture says that the Church is the Body of Christ, of which He is the Head (Eph. 1:22-23). The eventual union of Christ and His Bride, are shown in Rev. 21:9-14, where V.14 implicates the Gospels figuratively, and the walls of the city has "12 foundations", named as the 12 Apostles of the Lamb! This shows therefore that the "Body" and the "Bride" are eventually one with Christ!
(b) See Lev. 23:10, which confirms them as the first-fruits, to "God and the Lamb", and the nucleus of "Jeshuran".
V.5 And in their mouth was not found (a)the Lie: for they are without fault.
(a) "The Lie"; the A.V. translates "no guile". The Interlinear manuscript Str. number (1388) renders "to decoy", "to trick", "deceit", "guile", "subtlety", from a root word (Str. 1185) "to entrap", "delude", "allure", "beguile", "entice". Dr. Bullinger gives "was not found the Lie", his deduction from Ancient texts. The N.I.V. has "no Lie". J.N. Darby "no Lie". R.S.V. "no Lie". Revised Authorised "no guile".
Almost everybody who knows of these 144,000 believes that the A.V. "no guile" means that they are just innocent and clean. The writers however are of no doubt that Dr. Bullinger is the most accurate translation, i.e. "the Lie”.
Our Lord confirmed that Satan is "the father of Lies", (John 8:44), see: Father of Lies, John 8:44, and has sought from Eden, since the "foundation/overthrow" of the world, starting with Eve, to pervert and thwart the Loving purpose of Jehovah God. That purpose is to Redeem mankind, whom He loves (John 3:16), to establish Israel (The Bride), to conquer and destroy Satan and his demons, and to eventually usher in the perfect state, (see notes Chps. 11 and 12).
So "the Lie"; that is, Satan’s great deception, is not in these specially selected 144,000 men; who are (V4) “redeemed by Jesus"; NKJV!
However, the Lie goes on. It has continued from Eve in various forms, and usually men and women find the Lie attractive in the form it is presented in their own life time. Instead of trusting, studying and teaching the Truth as God the Holy Spirit gives in the Bible, it is perverted, modified etc., to suit the feelings, dogmas, motives and perversions of fallen mankind. The most prevalent currently is "there are many ways to God". This one appeases the world’s Pagan religions (all of Babylon), and even the pastors, preachers, vicars etc. in the Western world are now exhorted by their colleges, seminaries etc., "not to create waves", by preaching Christ crucified, and the only way of Salvation, (Acts 4:12 and elsewhere). See: Acts 4:12. This is "the current Lie", and it, and the one described above is not in the 144,000 of the 12 tribes of Israel, who were sealed in Chp.7!
Special Note: The A.V. finishes V.5; "before the throne of God". The Ancient texts do not have this. It is also excluded by JN Darby, NIV, and RSV and NKJV, however the Textus Receptus used by the King James translators includes it.
V.6 And I saw another angel flying in midst of Heaven having (a)an everlasting gospel (b)to (c)preach unto them that dwell on the Earth, and to (d)every Nation, and kindred, and tongue and people.
(a) This angel sent specially to deliver a message. It is important to note that an angelic messenger used. A human agent at this stage would not be heard. An angelic agent cannot be stopped, as is evidenced in Daniel 9:23 & 10:11-19. Also, an angelic agent cannot be corrupted, who has not given allegiance to Satan. The A.V. translates "an" as "the", which would give the impression that its message is the same as that of Christ to Israel, Paul to Israel first, and then the Gentiles, and that of Christendom today, with its many variations. All of the above "Gospels" (messages) are different, with Paul's latter "Gospel" (which was corrupted by Constantine, and Helena his mother), confirmed by (or re-discovered by) Martin Luther 1200-1300 years later; being that Salvation is by Grace only at this moment in time.
These points are made to show that the word "Gospel", does not always mean that of Salvation by Grace, but means a firm, truthful, unchangeable set of information, from, in this case Jehovah Zebaoth. The Interlinear Strongs no. 2098 means "news", "declare", "bring", "show", and often in the context of God's Word was "good news", in this case the message is "everlasting", and is to all them that dwell on the Earth.
(b) The Greek thrust of the translated "to" here, means "from above to below" (Comp. Bible).
(c) "Preach" (Str. 2097) "spread abroad", evangelise.
(d) "To every Nation, and kindred, and tongue and people"; this is strong and un-ambiguous. This Gospel (message) is not to a small group, but to all people on Planet Earth! (See note at beginning of Chapter 9).
V.7 Saying with a (a)great voice, "Fear (b)God and give glory to Him; for the hour of His (c)judgement is come: and worship Him that made Heaven and Earth, and the sea, and the fountain of waters".
(a) "Great" A.V. has "loud", which diminishes.
(b) "God" in the N.T., refers to "the revealed Father". (Comp. Bible). This will immediately give offence to all the pagan religions, (which is all religions, not based on Acts 4:12). "For the hour of His judgement is come"; see Isaiah 61:2, and the latter half of this verse. Christ stopped halfway,"to proclaim the acceptable year of Adonai Jehovah". (Luke 4:18-19). So the (message) in this case, is that Jehovah Zebaoth is about to judge all the people of the Earth, which is the rest of Isa. 61, and the remaining Chapters. (This is not the Great White Throne Judgement). That message will not be a "good message" for most people. But for those who have been waiting for hundreds or even thousands of years in life and death, it will be the sweetest sound. Heavenly Creations together with non-fallen angels will rejoice and give praise and thanks, similarly as at our Lord's birth!
(c) "Judgement"; Str. no. 2920, Greek "Krisis" = decision for or against, tribunal, justice, specifically under Divine law, accusation, condemnation, damnation, judgement. This clearly is one of the major turning points, (Krisis) in the whole of Scripture. The angel delivers the message, the Father is about to act, all people on Earth have a choice to make. In verse 13,"labour" and "works" are prominent as regards those that "die in the Lord from henceforth"; clearly a change has taken place from the current position, which is that all may come to Salvation in the Grace of the Father! "And worship Him that made Heaven and Earth, and the sea, and the fountain of waters". Here is confirmation of God Almighty's Creation, and creative power, as Genesis; as opposed to Evolution; now totally disproved by DNA; (see; DNA, the tiny code that is toppling Evolution (By Mario Sieglie)).
V.8 And there followed (a)another angel, saying, "(b)Babylon is fallen, the great (c)#[city,]# (d)because she made all Nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication".
(a) "Another"; Greek; ALLOS = another of the same kind.
(b) "Babylon"; see Isa. 21:9 & Rev. 18:2. As mentioned in earlier Chapters, Babylon is the source of all pagan religions post the flood. That progressed strongly under Nimrod and his mother. Their work has spread worldwide, and their pagan heritage is in all countries, and as well as religions, is showing in all human activity.
As mentioned above, all religions or human activity which does not acknowledge Acts. 4:12, is of Babylon! In V.8 we are told that Babylon is fallen! When that happens, all the world's systems, governments, institutions, trade and commerce, religions and beliefs, ideas and opinions etc., will be brought to nothing, and will stand helpless before Almighty Jehovah Zebaoth!
(c) #["City;" is not in the Ancient text ]!#; see introductory note to Chapter 18.
(d) "Because etc."; here is the simply stated fact that Satan has used all the human Babylonian endeavours to usurp God Almighty, and enslave and control human beings for his purpose. The words "made all Nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication"; gives the meaning to the methods of Satan's controls, using all human weaknesses. (See: Mystery Babylon:).
V.9 And (a)the third angel followed them saying with a (b)loud voice, (c)"If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark upon his forehead, or in his hand,
V.10 The same shall (d)drink of the wine of the wrath of God, (e)which is poured out without mixture (f)into the cup of His indignation; (g)and they shall be tormented with fire and brimstone (h)in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:
V.11 (k)And the smoke of their torment (m)ascendeth up forever and ever: (n)and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name".
Special note: It is not an exaggeration to say this is probably the most profound warning in the whole of Scripture, which is delivered by the third angel. (We must remember that these messengers are being heard by all mankind)! The following warning given is so profoundly strong and uncompromising, that most readers shrink from accepting its clear message. However, we know that all Scripture is from the Holy Spirit (2Tim. 3:16). The severity of the warning does not at first glance seem to accord with The Almighty God of Love. However; when properly and prayerfully perceived, it becomes clear that even at this extreme stage of evil (adherence to Satan), that has by then been reached, merciful Jehovah Zebaoth has given a last warning to the people of Earth. At this present moment in time it is very easy for people to escape future judgement and damnation, by accepting in Truth in their hearts, that Jesus Christ died for their sin, on The Cross, at Calvary, outside the walls of Jerusalem, approx. 2000 years ago. That sacrifice, which is acceptable to Jehovah God, IS THE ULTIMATE, BECAUSE CHRIST ON THE CROSS WAS GOD INCARNATE! Once this offered gift of Salvation (being made whole) is removed, the way to Salvation and God becomes much harder, as is being shown in this Chapter 14. Once the warning of Vs. 9-10 are given there are only TWO OPTIONS open to mankind.
1) Be for Jehovah Zebaoth and Christ; and receive the full wrath of the Anti-Christ!
2) Serve Satan, receive his mark and worship him.
Once the second option is taken men and women would be seen as they truly are for the first time (tares), with no subterfuge, disguise or other ways of covering their true identity. They are children of Satan, and TOTALY unredeemable, and will receive the same punishment reserved for Satan and his angels eventually. (Rev. 20:11-13). As some angels fell under the guile, Lies and deceit of Satan, so will countless human beings. The torment that they will have to endure for an Age has turned many good men and women from studying these verses, but they must be understood in the context of Satan's totally perverse rebellion against THE ONE TRUE LOVING GOD, whose purpose in the defeat of Satan is only to prove HIS GREAT LOVE of HIS created beings (see notes in Chp. 12:V.12 a) b) & c), and to deal with the "Mystery of Iniquity"! (2Thess.2:7).
(a) "The third angel"; another, similar to the two previous special message delivering angel.
(b) "Loud voice"; loud should be translated "great".
(c) "If any man worships the beast and his image, and receive his mark upon his forehead, or in his hand, (V.10) the same shall". The translated "any man", should from the Greek "EITIS" (Str. 1536) be anyone, which means male and female. "Worship the beast and his image etc"; for any person thus marked (therefore owned!), and worshipping Satan this great Enemy of God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, Heavenly Creation and mankind, who is responsible for all the suffering of the above listed; and after the final warnings their justifiable and observed punishment plays a part in the Millennial Reign and The Work which Christ is finishing prior to presenting it to the Father (1Cor. 15:24).
(d) "Drink of the wine of the wrath of God"; see V.18 and later comment.
(e) "Which is poured out without mixture"; no water or other dilutant added, to ease the mixtures strength.
This is the long awaited "Day of Jehovah Zebaoth", when His Just vengeance shall for the first time be laid on Satanic humankind.
(f) "Into the cup of His indignation"; God has been patient "and willing that no man should perish" (John 3:15-16) & (2Peter 3:9). At this stage, the marked ones (tares), who have shown contempt for all the forbearance of Almighty God and Christ, are about to know the result of their contempt and rebellion, by the wrath of God on them.
(g) "And they shall be tormented with fire and brimstones"; "tormented" (Str. 928) the Greek "BASANIXO"; to torment, pain to torture. "Fire"; (Str. 4442) the Greek "PUR"; fire, lightning. "Brimstone"; the Greek "theion"; flashing, sulphur, brimstone. Interestingly (Str. 2303 is derived from Str. 2304; Godlike, divine, Godhead, and also Str. 2316: "Theos"; supreme divinity). From the aforementioned, it is easy to visualise the Supreme Divinity, wreaking anger on Satan's disciples in:
(h) "The presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb":
Here is the stated fact that God the Father will torment Satan's disciples, in the presence of the non-fallen angels (remembering that one third of all angelic beings will have gone over to Satan), and The Lamb. It has to be noted that The LAMB is mentioned and not Christ or Jesus! This will be a constant reminder during this period (Millennial), to all Creation that Christ became The Lamb of God that took away the sin of the world, the extent of that burden cannot be calculated in its extreme! Also the humans being tormented, that they are the result of the Lie, which only Satan propagated.
(k) "And the smoke of their torment"; the word smoke probably is used to indicate their huge agony and regret, as well as their actual suffering. Many true Christ-ones, have been tortured, burned alive etc., when they stood against "The Lie", in its many forms, an example being the Roman Church, and its Inquisition!
(m) "Accendeth up for ever and ever"; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name". "Forever and ever"; (Str. 165) Greek "AION"; an Age. It however has a particular meaning in the Jewish context of, "a Messianic period"!! (Which would indicate the 1000 years of the Millennial Reign of Christ Jesus and Jehovah Zebaoth from Jerusalem)!
(n) "And they have no rest day or night", who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name". The fact that no rest is available "day or night", to these Satanic adherents tends to back up the "Messianic period" mentioned above, as day and night as we know it is to change at Chp. 21, when God Almighty "makes all things new". Its also implicit that at the "Great White Throne Judgement", these people will go the way of their master, Chp. 20:10". "And whosoever receiveth the mark of his name". See above comments, and those of Chp. 13:17.
V.12 (a)Here is the patience of the holy saints: they that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.
V.13 And I heard a voice from Heaven saying "Write, (b)Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, said the Spirit, that they may rest from (c)their toilsome labours; for their rewards do follow them".
(a) This clearly refers to the Overcomers of earlier reference and notes. (See: Rev. 7).
(b) These people (Overcomers) of the early Chapters of Revelation are specially blessed, as their rewards "do follow them", which implies as mentioned earlier, immediately after death.
(c) It is clear that their labours (works etc.) are very hard; resisting Anti-Christ (Satan), but with access to Holy Spirit; by request; (see; Rev. 1:20 etc.).
V.14 And I saw, and beheld a white cloud, and upon the cloud (a)One sitting like unto the Son of Man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a (b)sharp sickle.
V.15 And another (c)angle came out of the Temple, crying with a loud voice to Him sitting on the cloud, "thrust in Thy Sickle, and reap: for the (d)time is come for Thee to reap; for the harvest of the Earth is ripe".
(a) "Son of Man"; this is the last occurrence of this title. This is the title Jesus applied to Himself (Matt. 8:20). The meaning "He who has dominion in the Earth", (page 1324 Comp.). When used of ordinary men, it never has the definite article, (Ezk. 2:1). As Christ is The Ultimate Man, the anti-thesis to Adam, the definite article used. Since Matt. 8:20, this title used 87 times, and the precursor in Psalm 8. Its use here, the last, denotes a change in the role of Christ. Here, as "King of the Jews", with a golden crown, instead of "crown of thorns". He is about to reap, Matt. 13:24-30.
(b) "Sharp sickle"; definite act about to be performed by Christ, harvesting and separating.
(c) "Angel", The Son of Man, awaits the message FROM THE TEMPLE IN HEAVEN, the timing is the FATHER’S ALONE!
(d) "The time is come to reap"; when our Lord referred to The Harvest, during His time on Earth with His people, the Jews, He frequently made reference to this Harvest. He had stated that "I come only to the lost sheep of Israel" (Matt. 15:24), and here He is reaping the "remnant", who have not been killed by Satan and his forces. This remnant had to be saved to fulfil the promise of God, that Israel would never cease to exist on Earth, (see earlier references). This "remnant", much quoted in O.T. (i.e. Isa. 49:6) passages, is certainly to be part of the future "ideal Israel", "JESHURUN", together with resurrected worthy Israel!
V.16 (a)And He that sat on the cloud thrust in His sickle on the Earth; and the Earth was reaped.
V.17 And (b)another angel came out of the Temple in Heaven, also having a sharp sickle.
V.18 And another angel came out from the alter who had power over the alter fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, "thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the Earth; for her (c)grapes are fully ripe".
(a) "The Son of Man’s", work in this role completed, by this act.
(b) This angel’s reaping is to be against the peoples of Earth who are invading and oppressing Israel, and bearing the beasts mark.
(c) "Grapes fully ripe". (Deut. 32:32-33, Joel 3:12-15, Zeph. 3:8, Isa. 34: 1-8 and Rev. 19:15).
V.19 And the angel thrust in his sickle to the Earth, and gathered the vine of the Earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the (a)wrath of God.
V.20 (b)And the winepress was trodden without the city, and the (c)blood came out of the winepress, even unto the (d)horses bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.
(a) “The Wrath of God”; this is what Christ-ones, and the remnant of Israel are not destined for. (See earlier notes).
(b) "Trodden without the city"; "the city" being Jerusalem. (See Rev. 16:16, Armageddon, or mount of Meggido). (See Isa. 10:32-34 and others).
(c) This is not wine, but the blood of the above mentioned.
(d) This English translation "furlong" is in the Greek, "STADIA", from stadium or race course (Str. 4712) equals approx. 202 English yards. Therefore; = approx. 183 English miles. Charles Welch makes the interesting point that from the North to the South of Ancient Israel, that is from Mount Hermon to Kadesh-Barea is approx. 180 miles.
The horses bridle is 4½- 5½ feet high. So with an average of 5 feet; multiplied by 183 miles, there is much loss of life as is to be expected by the descriptions given!
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